Packing smart makes for a better day on the water—don’t forget the sun gear, layers, and fishing essentials for your Key West charter.

🧳 What to Pack for Your Key West Fishing Adventure

Packing smart makes for a better day on the water

Don’t forget the sun gear, layers, and fishing essentials for your Key West fishing charter. Whether you’re planning a serious offshore run or a casual family fun fishing trip, a few small details can make the difference between an okay day and an unforgettable one.

A fishing trip in Key West, Florida means salt spray, sunshine, and surprises and maybe even a little blood. From the deep blue Gulf Stream to the calm backcountry flats, every adventure comes with its own set of challenges. The right gear helps you enjoy the thrill while staying comfortable, cool, and ready to reel in whatever bites.

Below is your complete Key West fishing checklist—perfect for deep sea charters, inshore trips, or snorkel-and-fish combos. Let’s get you prepped so you can focus on the fun and the fish while we handle the rest.

☀️ 1. Sun Protection: It’s Not Optional

The Florida Keys and Key West sun is no joke. Even on cloudy days, UV rays reflect off the water and can cook unprotected skin in minutes. Many first-time visitors underestimate how strong it really is—and end up calling it a day early.

Pack these essentials:

• Polarized sunglasses – Reduce glare and help spot fish beneath the surface, especially on flats and reef trips.Being able to see in the water enhances your experience.

• Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+ minimum) – Use lotion, not spray. Apply before departure and reapply every few hours.

• Neck gaiter or buff – Protects your face, ears, and neck from sun and windburn. Don’t leave home without it.

• Wide-brim hat or performance cap – Keeps you shaded and comfortable. A must to keep the wringles away.

• Lightweight, long-sleeve shirt – UV-protective fishing shirts are ideal for Key West heat. Especially the Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing shirts. They are available at the dock and can be purchased before departure.

• Before departure, swing by our dock shop for last-minute sun gear. We keep extra Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing performance shirts, hats, buffs, and reef-safe sunscreen on hand so you’re protected from the first cast. Our crews use the same BiteBackBrand gear you’ll find there—it’s designed for Key West heat and long days offshore, so you’ll stay cool while looking like part of the team.

Pro tip: Our crews wear BiteBackBrand performance gear. Go to Local Legends > Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing to grab the same saltwater-tested shirts and hats that keep our captains cool all day long.

👕 2. Clothing & Footwear: Dress Smart for the Boat

Between splashing waves and changing weather, smart clothing choices keep you dry, flexible, and comfortable. Whether you’re on a deep sea fishing charter in Key West or an inshore family trip, pack:

• Quick-dry fishing pants or shorts – Moisture-wicking fabrics make all the difference.

• Performance long-sleeve shirts – UPF-rated and breathable. Cowboy Cowgirl performance gear available at the dock before departure.

• Non-slip deck shoes or sandals – Flip-flops slide; proper soles grip.

• Light rain jacket – Afternoon squalls are common, especially in summer. If you’re joining us during winter or early spring, bring a lightweight layer for the ride out—mornings can start breezy before the sun warms up. Guests often grab one of our zip-up Cowboy Cowgirl hoodies at check-in; they’re breathable, quick-dry, and double as great souvenirs. Remember, comfort equals endurance—the longer you stay relaxed, the more fish we can chase.

• Swimsuit or change of clothes – If you’ve booked a fishing and sandbar combo, you’ll want to jump in.

Comfort is key—when you’re comfortable, you’ll fish better and enjoy the ride more.

🧊 3. Food, Beverages & Hydration

Key West heat and saltwater air can drain your energy quickly. Staying hydrated and fueled is especially important for offshore or full-day shark fishing trips.

Bring:

• Plenty of water – At least two bottles per person.

• Electrolyte drinks – Gatorade or electrolyte tabs help prevent dehydration.

• Snacks or lunch – Sandwiches, protein bars, fruit, or jerky are perfect choices.

• Small personal cooler – Optional; most boats already provide one.

⚠️ No glass bottles on most boats—use cans or reusable containers.

Each of our boats carries ice and coolers, but you’re welcome to pack your own small supply of drinks or snacks. A few local favorites we recommend: Cuban sandwiches from Sandy’s Café, conch fritters from Eaton Street Seafood, or Key lime cookies for dessert. Small, portable treats keep energy up between hook-ups and make your Key West fishing trip feel like the full island experience

🧰 4. Optional Fishing Extras for Enthusiasts

Our charters provide all tackle, bait, and licenses. But if you’re a seasoned angler or content creator, you might want to bring a few extras:

• Fishing gloves – For handling leaders and toothy catches.

• GoPro or waterproof phone case – Capture the moment that monster fish hits.

• Fish towel or microfiber cloth – Great for cleaning hands or gear.

• Dry bag – Keep phones and valuables safe.

• Motion sickness medicine – Take it 1 hour before departure if you’re unsure.

If you’re joining one of the best Key West offshore fishing trips—targeting tuna, mahi, or marlin—set up your camera ahead of time. Some of our guests have filmed incredible battles they’ll never forget.

Guests who film their adventures can tag #CowboyCowgirlSportfishing on social media—we love sharing customer catches on our pages. Many anglers use waterproof GoPros mounted to the T-top or rail for amazing footage of the fight. Our captains are happy to give quick filming tips so you get that perfect release shot without missing the next bite.

🎯 5. Must-Have Basics (Don’t Leave the Dock Without These)

A few simple items are easy to overlook—but impossible to replace once you’re underway:

• Photo ID – Required for your fishing license (we supply the permit).

• Cash for crew tips – 15–20% is customary and appreciated.

• Charged phone or camera – For photos, music, and emergencies.

• Battery pack – Offshore coverage drains batteries quickly.

• Essential medications – Always bring your daily meds on board.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Bonus: Packing for Family-Friendly Trips

Heading out on a Key West family fishing charter? Add a few extras to make it even smoother:

• Kids’ hats, sunglasses, and smaller buffs.

• Sunblock wipes for easy application.

• Non-messy snacks like crackers or granola bars.

• Music or playlists (many boats allow Bluetooth).

Fishing with kids is one of the best family experiences in Key West—just remember, when everyone’s comfortable, the fun lasts longer. Parents often tell us that fishing became their kids’ favorite memory of Key West. We provide child-size life jackets, and our crews are patient teachers who keep the experience light and fun. Little anglers even get a “First Fish Certificate” signed by the captain—great for scrapbooks and future fishermen alike.

🛥️ Ready for Your Trip?

Whether you’ve booked a deep sea fishing charter, a shark adventure, or one of the top-rated Key West shared charters, being prepared ensures you’ll spend more time fishing and less time worrying.

Still deciding which trip is right for you? Explore our full lineup—from affordable shared trips to fully private, luxury offshore charters. Every outing includes gear, bait, and experienced local guides who know the waters inside and out.

Before you board, don’t forget your sun gear and BiteBackBrand apparel. Under Local Legends, head to Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing to grab the same high-performance shirts and accessories our crew trusts daily.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Packing for a Key West Fishing Charter

Q: What should I wear on a fishing charter in Key West?

A: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing is best. We recommend long-sleeve UV-protective shirts, quick-dry shorts, and a hat or buff for sun protection. Non-slip deck shoes or sandals are safer than flip-flops, especially on offshore charters.

Q: Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?

A: No. All Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing charters include top-quality rods, reels, bait, and tackle. However, you’re welcome to bring your favorite gear or fishing gloves if you prefer.

Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks?

A: Yes. Most guests bring bottled water, snacks, and sandwiches for longer trips. Just avoid glass containers for safety. We also recommend electrolyte drinks like Gatorade to stay hydrated during your Key West deep sea adventure.

Q: What kind of sunscreen should I pack for a fishing trip?

A: Use reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) in lotion form. Spray sunscreens can make the deck slippery and harm marine life. Reapply every 2–3 hours, even on cloudy days.

Q: Should I bring cash for my fishing trip?

A: Yes. Tips for the crew (usually 15–20%) are always appreciated and best given in cash. Bringing small bills also helps if you plan to buy snacks, drinks, or a Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing T-shirt after your trip.

Q: What should families pack for a fishing trip with kids?

A: Bring kid-sized hats and sunglasses, easy snacks, plenty of water, and sunblock wipes. We also suggest a light hoodie or towel for shade. Family-friendly fishing charters are our specialty—our crew keeps the experience fun, safe, and interactive for all ages.

Q: What’s something most people forget to pack?

A: A neck gaiter or buff! It protects your skin from sun and windburn. Also, don’t forget your charged phone or GoPro to capture the moment you reel in your fish of a lifetime.

Q: Can I keep the fish I catch?

A: Yes, most species caught in Key West can be cleaned and filleted by our crew. Some guests even take their fresh catch to local restaurants for a “cook your catch” meal—just ask your captain for recommendations!

Q: What if it rains during my fishing trip?

A: Light rain is common in the Keys, especially in summer. Bring a light rain jacket or windbreaker. Our captains monitor weather conditions closely to ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable.

Q: Where can I buy performance fishing apparel before my trip?

A: Visit BiteBackBrand and click Local Legends > Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing to grab our official shirts, hats, and sun-protection gear—designed by anglers, for anglers, and tested daily on the waters of Key West.

Why Book Your Key West Fishing Trip With Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing

Since 1965, our family has been helping visitors and locals experience the best fishing in Key West. Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing isn’t a booking broker or reseller—we own and operate every boat in our fleet. When you book with us, you’re fishing with real captains who spend their lives on the water.

We offer everything from deep-sea sportfishing and shark adventures to family-friendly shared trips and private luxury charters. Every trip is customized around your comfort level, your group size, and the experience you want—whether that’s chasing sailfish offshore, hooking grouper and snapper on the reef, or relaxing at the sandbar between bites.

Our long history in Key West means you get honest advice, clean boats, friendly crews, and results. That’s how three generations of the Baumgarten family have earned a reputation for dependable, high-quality fishing charters.

Make the Most of Your Day in Key West

Arrive at the dock 15 minutes early, check in with your captain, and grab a cup of coffee while we load bait and tackle. Walk the pier, meet the other crews, and browse our Cowboy Cowgirl performance gear available right at the dock before departure—everything from breathable shirts to buffs and hats. When the lines come tight and the reel starts screaming, you’ll be glad you came prepared.

Bring your camera and a smile—every trip is a chance to make memories, not just catches. Whether you’re fishing offshore for mahi, heading to the reef for snapper, or taking a family sandbar combo trip, you’ll finish your day with stories worth telling.

Comfort, Safety & What We Provide On Board</h3>

Your comfort and safety come first. Every charter includes quality tackle, bait, and licenses, plus safety equipment, GPS navigation, and communication gear maintained to Coast Guard standards.

Our Key West charter boats range from comfortable air-conditioned sportfishing yachts to fast light-tackle center consoles. If you’re bringing children or older guests, we’ll suggest calm-water routes and shaded vessels so everyone enjoys the day.

Our captains monitor weather, tides, and current conditions constantly. If the ocean is rough or storms pop up, we adjust the plan to keep you fishing safely. You don’t need experience—just enthusiasm. We handle the details so you can focus on reeling them in.

How Booking Works: Shared vs Private Trips

Booking is simple. Choose a private charter for your own boat and custom itinerary, or a shared (split) charter if you’d like to join other small groups and save on cost. Trip lengths range from four-hour half days to twelve-hour offshore runs.

• 4-Hour Trips: Perfect for families, first-timers, or light reef action.

• 6-Hour Trips: Our most popular “just-right” adventure.

• 8- to 12-Hour Trips: Designed for offshore anglers targeting tuna, mahi, wahoo, sailfish, or marlin.

We also run specialty outings—night snapper fishing, shark and tarpon combos, and snorkel + fish packages around the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys.

To book, call or text 305-304-2946. You’ll reach someone from our dock, not a call center. We’ll match you with the right boat, captain, and timeframe for your group.

Ready to Plan Your Key West Fishing Trip?

Whether you’re joining one of our affordable shared fishing trips or booking a full-day private adventure, we’ll help you pack right, fish smart, and make the most of your day on the water.

Call 305-304-2946 or visit Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing to start planning your next Key West fishing experience—then grab your BiteBackBrand gear under Local Legends > Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing to be ready for the sun, the salt, and the catch of a lifetime.

About Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing Charters
Founded in 1965, Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing Charters has helped thousands of anglers experience the thrill of fishing the waters surrounding Key West and the Florida Keys. Our fleet includes comfortable, fully equipped boats for offshore, reef, inshore, and shark fishing. Every trip includes professional crew, top-quality gear, and decades of local knowledge. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a bachelor weekend, or a serious deep-sea adventure, our team will help you find the perfect charter. Call 305-304-2946 to plan your next day on the water.